What makes a hotel truly romantic? For some, it’s a fire lit in a former tea planter’s bungalow. For others, it’s a sunset over the Indian Ocean or the thrill of sharing an extraordinary wildlife encounter. Drawing on first-hand experience and years of curating luxury holidays across the island, Holly Matthews shares her favourite boutique hotels in Sri Lanka for couples, from intimate tea country retreats to some of the island’s most enchanting coastal hideaways.

Discover the magic of luxury family holidays Europe through the eyes of a child. From the private villa freedom of Kalkan to the design-led zoning of XO Cape Arnna and the boutique charm of St Nicolas Bay, explore our handpicked portfolio of European hideaways where adult relaxation and childhood wonder coexist beautifully.

Part luxury hotel, part living museum, Museum Hotel Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most extraordinary places to stay. Perched above Cappadocia’s ancient valleys, this remarkable Relais & Châteaux property combines atmospheric cave suites, Michelin Guide-recognised dining and unforgettable hot-air balloon views in a setting unlike anywhere else on earth.

Discover why The Stay Bosphorus Istanbul offers one of the city’s most atmospheric waterfront stays and how the Bosphorus shapes a more contemporary, stylish side of Istanbul. Set in lively Ortakoy, this elegant boutique hotel combines Ottoman heritage, modern Turkish design and panoramic Bosphorus views with effortless access to the city’s historic landmarks.

A landmark hotel in Beyoglu, Pera Palace offers a stay rooted in history, character and a true sense of Istanbul – with effortless access to the city’s most iconic sights

A small, family-run cave hotel in Uchisar with one of Cappadocia’s finest viewpoints. Personally tested and carefully selected, Eyes of Cappadocia offers an authentic, all-season base with exceptional dining nearby and unforgettable sunrise views.

With a history rooted in the 19th century, Gran Hotel Taoro was once the address of choice for European royalty and writers — now restored and quietly reopened above Puerto de la Cruz in north Tenerife.